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Exploring HIV risks, testing and prevention among sub-Saharan African community members in Australia.
- Source :
- International Journal for Equity in Health; 5/21/2018, Vol. 17 Issue 1, pN.PAG-N.PAG, 1p, 1 Chart
- Publication Year :
- 2018
-
Abstract
- Background: Significant health disparities persist regarding new and late Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) diagnoses among sub-Saharan African (SSA) communities in Australia. Personal/cultural beliefs and practices influence HIV (risk, prevention, testing) within Australia and during visits to home countries. Method: A community forum was conducted involving 23 male and female adult African community workers, members and leaders, and health workers; facilitated by cultural workers and an experienced clinician/researcher. The forum comprised small/large group discussions regarding HIV risk/prevention (responses transcribed verbatim; utilising thematic analysis). Results: Stigma, denial, social norms, tradition and culture permeated perceptions/beliefs regarding HIV testing, prevention and transmission among African Australians, particularly regarding return travel to home countries. Conclusions: International travel as a risk factor for HIV acquisition requires further examination, as does the role of the doctor in HIV testing and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Further assessment of PrEP as an appropriate/feasible intervention is needed, with careful attention regarding negative community perceptions and potential impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 14759276
- Volume :
- 17
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- International Journal for Equity in Health
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 129710996
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-018-0772-6